Senior Distribution Planning Engineer – DER Integration

Location: New Jersey (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)Job Type: Full-TimeAbout UsCARIAN is a purpose-driven, woman-owned consulting and advisory firm dedicated exclusively to the power sector.

We partner with leading electric and gas utilities to provide strategic advisory and disciplined execution across program management, business intelligence, and field execution oversight. Guided by integrity, trust, excellence, and accountability, our team helps deliver complex capital programs and build the resilient energy infrastructure that communities depend on.Position OverviewCARIAN is seeking a Senior Distribution Planning Engineer – DER Integration to contribute to distribution system planning, studies, and distributed energy resource (DER) integration initiatives across a major electric utility in New Jersey.This role focuses on hosting capacity analysis, distribution system modeling, power flow and power quality studies, DER screening methodologies, and planning and operational studies. The ideal candidate will bring strong electric utility distribution engineering experience and advanced proficiency with CYME, with the ability to evaluate DER impacts and support reliable integration across the distribution system.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform CYME-based Hosting Capacity Analysis and support automation of study workflowsConduct distribution power flow analysis and validate circuit models against field conditionsPerform power quality analysis using AMI, SCADA, monitoring devices, and field measurementsDevelop and document workflows for Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 DER screening processes using CYME and Power BIDevelop methodologies and technical criteria for advanced Level 3 screening studies, including determining when EMTP or transient analysis is requiredSupport development of Power BI dashboard strategies to assist planners with DER screening and hosting capacity processesCollaborate with engineering, planning, operations, and technology stakeholders to support DER integration using CYME, DERMS, and other utility software platformsPrepare technical reports, study documentation, methodologies, and standard operating proceduresSupport distribution planning and system operational studies related to DER integration and grid modernization initiativesQualificationsExperience Level: 5+ yearsBachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, or related disciplineMinimum 5 years of electric utility distribution engineering, distribution planning, power system studies, or DER integration experienceAdvanced proficiency with CYME, including advanced analysis modulesExperience performing hosting capacity analysis and distribution system modelingExperience performing distribution power flow and power system studies involving DER integrationStrong understanding of electric utility distribution systems and planning practicesStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsStrong written and verbal communication skills supporting cross-functional collaborationStrong technical documentation and report writing capabilitiesValid driver’s licensePreferredExperience with EMTP or other transient analysis toolsExperience developing DER screening methodologiesExperience with DERMS implementation or grid modernization initiativesExperience with Python and SQLExperience with Power BI dashboard development and analyticsPrior experience supporting investor-owned utilitiesWhy CARIANPurpose-driven work – Help deliver infrastructure that powers communitiesIndustry reputation – Trusted by leading utilities for our reliability and resultsCareer growth – Opportunities to support major grid modernization programs and expand technical leadership capabilitiesCollaborative culture – Join a team that values delivery excellence and long-term relationshipsCompetitive total rewards – Strong compensation, full benefits, 401(k) match, and meaningful workEqual Employment OpportunityCARIAN is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire and develop talent based on qualifications, performance, and business needs. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. As a women-owned firm dedicated to the power sector, we are committed to building a team that reflects professionalism, expertise, and integrity at every level.CompensationThe base salary range for this role is $104,000 – $156,000 annually. This range represents a good-faith estimate at the time of posting; actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and other factors permitted by law. In addition to base salary, the role includes eligibility for bonus incentives, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company 401(k) match.